MEPs prepare for clash over fisheries reform

MEPs will today vote (6 December) on reform of the Common Fisheries Policy, and are likely to end up on a collision course with member states.

The most contentious issue is over whether the European Parliament has the right to legislate on fish quotas. MEPs have tabled amendments – which now look likely to pass – which are based on the Parliament having the power to limit quotas in the future. But member states say this violates the EU treaties, which say that quotas are off limits for the Parliament.

Proponents of significant CFP reform, including an end to discards and overfishing, say they feel confident going into the vote. Reforms are supported by the Socialists, Liberals and the European Conservatives and Reformists. But the centre-right European People’s Party group has tabled an amendment on ending discards that gives greater flexibility to fishermen.

“To come so far and fall short in Strasbourg would be sad. To squander the future of Europe’s fisheries for fear of strong reform would be a tragedy,” said Sandy Luk, a lawyer with campaign group ClientEarth. “We urge all MEPs to vote to end overfishing.”

Speaking to the Parliament’s fisheries committee last month, Simon Coveney, Ireland’s minister for agriculture and fisheries, said the dispute over the Parliament’s authority shouldn’t prevent the dossier from moving forward. But he acknowledged that it is an issue member states feel strongly about.